The story

Barack Obama and John McCain had planned on spending Thursday sequestered from the campaign trail preparing for the first presidential debate Friday night, but uncertainty surrounding the economic bailout plan has cut short both men's study sessions.

Instead of preparing for the debate, both candidates returned to Washington to participate in talks over a $700 billion rescue plan for the nation's financial system.

Before returning to Washington, Obama had been hunkered down in Florida earlier this week for a "debate camp," the traditional preparation that includes a sparring partner playing the role of his opponent. Read full article »